These packs were distributed to children through Red Cross branches in Hambantota, Puttalam, Colombo, Jaffna, Batticaloa, Trincomalee, Gampaha, Galle and Matara.

Country Coordinator of Japanese Red Cross Sathoshi Funahashi handed the packs over to President of Sri Lanka Red Cross Society Jagath Abeysinghe in the presence of National Secretary S. H. Nimal Kumar.

The Japanese RC initiated this programme in 2006 by donating 30,000 packs. Last year 12,000 packs were distributed and another 12,000 last week. So far 54,000 students have been benefited through these donations.

The recipients were mainly children who were affected by the tsunami and those from underprivileged families.

Addressing the distribution ceremony, Funahasi said the gift would help the children to continue their education at schools.

Senior Vice President of SLRCS Bharata Jonikku Hewa said that at least needy children of 10 schools in each district would receive these packs. The Youth Wing has carried out this programme efficiently with good management and transparency.

"Our aim is to contribute towards building a better future generation. We will introduce new programmes in the near future to strengthen the Youth wing", Hewa said and thanked the JRC for the support and cooperation it has extended.